Keep Your Pets Cool

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Know the signs to prevent heatstroke.

As the dog days of August come to a close and temperatures turn cooler, owners should remain aware of the risk of heatstroke.

A recent Stanford University study showed that even on a 72-degree day, a car’s internal temperature could climb to 116 degrees within one hour.

And while most responsible pet owners are aware of "animal-in-car" danger, pets can suffer from heatstroke in other surprising ways.

“Unfortunately, heatstroke can occur in more common ways — from a walk around the neighborhood to simple activities outside," said Dr. Miryam Reems, a veterinary critical care specialist at Florida Veterinary Specialists.

Heatstroke occurs when the pet’s natural defense system cannot handle the heat building up inside his body. Usually, a dog handles heat through respiratory measures such as panting. When the dog cannot pant away the heat, his body will overheat. Heatstroke that occurs as a result of physical activity or exercise usually takes place when pets are exposed to hot temperatures.

“The heat index is particularly important, because if the weather forecast says it will be 85 degrees and the humidity is 89 percent, it will actually feel like 101 degrees outside,” said Reems, who recommends owners avoid exercising or walking their pets during the middle of the day.

"When it is this hot outside, the best times for physical activity are before 9 a.m. or after 7 p.m.," she continued. Reems also cautions that although there are measures to prevent heatstroke, it can occur at any time of the day.

Some pets can get heatstroke while swimming. Even the most athletic breeds and dogs that are very fit can suffer from heatstroke. Recently, Reems treated a working dog with a local public safety department who suffered from heatstroke.

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